Author: Cynthia Idowu.
In a determined effort to strengthen border management in 2025, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), through its National Public Relations Officer, Assistant Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, has unveiled a revamped enforcement strategy.
In a statement released on Tuesday, 24 December 2024, AC Maiwada said the updated strategy aims to eliminate trade bottlenecks, enhance border security, combat smuggling, and promote legitimate trade.
According to Maiwada, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, has approved the reduction of customs checkpoints nationwide to streamline operations and facilitate the smooth movement of goods and people.
“Going forward, customs operations will focus more on actionable intelligence and strategic risk management frameworks to ensure greater efficiency and effectiveness. Additionally, the Service is deploying geospatial tools and advanced technologies to strengthen enforcement strategies,” he said.
The spokesman added that these measures underscore the NCS’s commitment to adopting innovative, intelligence-driven approaches for more effective border enforcement and anti-smuggling efforts.
In a significant policy shift, Maiwada also announced the dissolution of the Joint Border Patrol Team (JBPT) following consultations with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). The JBPT, which began in 2019 under the codename “Ex-Swift Response,” played a critical role in enforcing Nigeria’s partial border closure policy. Over the years, it proved pivotal in curbing the influx of prohibited goods and ensuring compliance with trade and security regulations.
The NCS expressed its appreciation to the government agencies that collaborated in the success of the JBPT, acknowledging their dedication and vital contributions to safeguarding Nigeria’s land borders.
Reassuring the public and stakeholders, the Service affirmed that these changes would neither weaken border security nor hinder trade facilitation. Instead, they signify a progressive step towards modernising customs operations, enhancing trade compliance, and bolstering national security.
The CGC reiterated his unwavering commitment, along with that of his officers, to securing Nigeria’s borders, promoting legitimate trade, and ensuring the safety and prosperity of all Nigerians. Maiwada also called on stakeholders to continue supporting efforts to combat economic sabotage.
